Ultimate Sweet & Savory Peach, Burrata, and Prosciutto Panini: Your Perfect Summer Sandwich
This Peach, Burrata, and Prosciutto Panini is undeniably the summer sandwich you never knew you needed, but won’t be able to live without. Imagine biting into a perfectly pressed sandwich where juicy, sun-ripened peaches meet the luxurious creaminess of burrata cheese and the delicate saltiness of prosciutto. All these exquisite flavors are embraced by crispy, golden-brown bread, creating an unparalleled sweet-and-savory experience. It’s a quick, fresh, and incredibly satisfying meal, ideal for a leisurely brunch, a delightful lunch, or anytime you crave a culinary creation that feels a little extra special.
There’s truly nothing that compares to the taste of sweet, ripe peaches when they are at their absolute peak in summer. Each year, I find myself eagerly anticipating their arrival, often “stalking” the local farmers’ market for those first signs of perfectly blushed, fragrant fruit. This particular panini recipe is designed to celebrate that seasonal goodness, showcasing the best of summer’s bounty.
For this gourmet panini, selecting the ripest, most flavorful peaches available is crucial. Their natural sweetness and tender texture are what truly elevate this sandwich. When paired with the opulent creaminess of burrata, the thinly sliced, savory prosciutto, and a scattering of fresh, aromatic basil, these deceptively simple ingredients transform into a panini that is anything but ordinary. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will delight your palate.
If you’ve never had the pleasure of trying burrata cheese before, you are in for an unforgettable culinary experience. I often describe it as mozzarella’s more luxurious, indulgent cousin – and when I say indulgent, I mean it! This cheese almost deserves an “R” rating for its sheer decadence. With its delicate, pliable outer shell and a rich, creamy interior that spectacularly oozes out when cut, burrata is gloriously messy, and absolutely worth every single bite. Its buttery texture and fresh dairy notes provide the perfect counterbalance to the vibrant peaches and salty prosciutto.
Beyond its incredible taste, this peach panini offers an easy way to enjoy a sophisticated meal without much fuss. It comes together quickly, making it ideal for those busy days when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s easily adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your preferences or whatever fresh ingredients you have on hand. Get ready to discover your new favorite summer indulgence!
[feast_advanced_jump_to]Essential Ingredients for Your Summer Panini
Crafting this delectable melty peach sandwich requires only a handful of simple, fresh ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in the quality of its components, so opt for the best you can find to truly make the flavors sing.
- Peaches: The undeniable hero of this sweet and savory panini. If my initial description of fresh, in-season peaches hasn’t convinced you, let me reiterate: summer peaches are simply in a league of their own. Their unparalleled sweetness and soft, aromatic flesh are non-negotiable for the best flavor. While you can certainly make this panini any time of year, always prioritize ripe peaches for that ultimate taste. Look for fruit with a gentle give when pressed and a fragrant aroma.
- Burrata: This exquisite soft Italian cheese is a true indulgence, crafted from mozzarella and cream. It features a delicate yet firm outer shell that encases a rich, incredibly creamy center that luxuriously spreads when cut or warmed. You’ll typically find burrata in the specialty cheese section of your grocery store, usually packed in liquid to preserve its freshness and texture. Its mild, milky flavor perfectly balances the sweetness of peaches and the saltiness of prosciutto.
- Prosciutto: A thinly sliced, dry-cured Italian ham known for its intense salty, savory flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. It adds a sophisticated layer of umami that beautifully complements the other ingredients. Pre-sliced prosciutto is readily available in the deli or specialty meats section. As it can be a bit on the pricier side, feel free to substitute with high-quality ham, crispy bacon, or even a flavorful turkey bacon if you prefer.
- Basil: The quintessential summer herb! Fresh basil leaves are a must-have, as their sweet, peppery, and slightly minty notes beautifully complement the peaches and add a vibrant, aromatic layer to the panini. If fresh basil isn’t available or you’re looking for an alternative, fresh thyme also makes an excellent choice, offering an earthy, slightly lemon-peppery nuance.
- Balsamic Vinegar: A good-quality balsamic vinegar or a pre-made balsamic glaze is essential. A thicker, aged balsamic offers a more complex, syrupy sweetness that enhances the peaches without overpowering them. It adds a crucial acidic brightness that ties all the flavors together. Look for balsamic glaze near the vinegars in your grocery store for a convenient option.
- Olive Oil: Use a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil not only for warming the peaches but also for drizzling over the burrata and brushing on the bread. Its fruity, slightly peppery notes add depth and ensure a perfectly golden, crispy exterior.
- Salt and Pepper: These humble seasonings are vital for bringing all the vibrant flavors into harmony. A pinch of kosher salt enhances the sweetness of the peaches and the richness of the cheese, while freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle, earthy kick. Always season to taste!
The comprehensive list of ingredients, along with precise measurements, is conveniently located in the recipe card below.
Easy Steps to Your Perfect Panini
You don’t need a dedicated panini maker to create a wonderfully delicious and melty sandwich. A trusty cast-iron skillet or a grill pan, combined with a little weight on top (like another heavy pan or a foil-wrapped brick), can achieve equally fantastic results, pressing your panini to golden perfection. Here’s how to assemble your irresistible peach, burrata, and prosciutto panini:
Step 1. Prepare the Peaches: In a small skillet, gently warm your thinly sliced peaches with a light drizzle of olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar over medium-low heat. Cook for just 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly, taking care not to let them brown. This step enhances their natural sweetness and helps them meld beautifully into the sandwich. Set them aside.
Step 2. Prepare the Bread: Lightly brush both exterior sides of your bread slices with olive oil. This is key for achieving that desirable golden, crispy crust when pressed. On one side of two slices of bread, generously spread the creamy burrata cheese. Use a fork to gently press and flatten the cheese slightly, ensuring even distribution. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the burrata, then season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 3. Layer with Peaches and Basil: Carefully arrange the warmed peaches over the burrata, making sure to include any delicious pan juices left in the skillet – these add extra flavor and moisture! Next, scatter a generous handful of fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, over the peaches. The basil’s aromatic quality will awaken the senses.
Step 4. Add the Prosciutto: Finally, elegantly layer the thinly sliced prosciutto over the basil and peaches. The salty, savory notes of the prosciutto will provide a wonderful contrast to the sweet fruit and creamy cheese.
Step 5. Grill the Panini: Place the other olive oil-brushed slice of bread on top to complete your sandwich. Preheat your panini maker or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the assembled panini onto the heated surface. If using a grill pan, use a heavy object (like another cast iron skillet or a plate topped with cans) to press the sandwich down firmly. Grill for approximately 2-3 minutes per side (or until golden brown and distinct grill marks appear), ensuring the cheese is beautifully melted and gooey. Serve your warm, crispy panini immediately to best enjoy its fresh flavors and textures.
These are abbreviated instructions designed for a quick overview. The complete, detailed instructions are available in the recipe card found below this section.
👩🍳Expert Tips for the Best Panini
- Choose the Right Bread: The foundation of any great panini is sturdy bread that can withstand pressing without becoming soggy. Opt for varieties like sourdough, multigrain, ciabatta, or even a good quality whole wheat. These breads have enough structure to hold the fillings and crisp up beautifully. Avoid overly soft or thinly sliced breads.
- Prioritize Ripe Peaches: This tip cannot be stressed enough. For the absolute sweetest and most flavorful panini, ensure your peaches are perfectly ripe. A ripe peach will have a fragrant aroma and yield slightly to gentle pressure. Underripe peaches will be bland and hard, while overripe ones can be too mushy.
- Locating Burrata: Burrata cheese is typically found in the specialty cheese section of larger supermarkets or at Italian delis. It’s often packaged in a small container with liquid (usually water or brine) to keep it fresh. Don’t confuse it with fresh mozzarella, although they are similar, burrata’s creamy interior is what makes it unique.
- Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: While the main ingredients are stars, proper seasoning brings everything together. Don’t hesitate to add extra olive oil, a richer balsamic drizzle, or additional pinches of salt and freshly ground pepper to suit your taste. A final sprinkle of flaky sea salt on the finished panini can also enhance the flavors.
- Warm Peaches Gently: The goal is to soften the peaches slightly and bring out their natural juices and sweetness, not to cook them thoroughly or make them mushy. A quick sauté over medium-low heat is sufficient. This also allows them to warm through when the panini is pressed.
- Preheat Your Panini Press or Pan: Ensure your cooking surface is adequately hot before placing the panini. A well-preheated press or pan will create beautiful grill marks and a crispy exterior more quickly, preventing the bread from drying out.
- Experiment with Herbs: While basil is a classic pairing, don’t be afraid to try other fresh herbs like mint for a bright, refreshing twist, or rosemary for an earthier note that surprisingly complements peaches.
Creative Substitutions and Delicious Variations
This peach, burrata, and prosciutto panini is fantastic as is, but it’s also incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with these ideas to make it your own or to use what you have on hand.
- Bacon Alternatives for Prosciutto: While prosciutto offers a unique texture and flavor, its price can be a deterrent. High-quality thin-sliced ham, crispy pan-fried bacon, or even smoked turkey bacon are excellent and more budget-friendly alternatives that still provide a savory counterpoint. For an adventurous twist, consider adding my savory-sweet rosemary and fig candied bacon or a dollop of rich bacon chutney for an extra layer of complexity.
- Different Fruits: Peaches are perfect, but other stone fruits work wonderfully too! Swap them out for sweet nectarines, tangy apricots, or even plums for a different flavor profile. In the colder months, a thinly sliced, sweet apple or pear can provide a similar crisp-sweet element.
- Herb Alternatives: If fresh basil isn’t your favorite or isn’t available, fresh thyme is a fantastic choice, offering an earthy, slightly lemon-peppery aroma. A few sprigs of fresh mint can also add a surprisingly refreshing twist, particularly with the sweet peaches.
- Cheese Swaps: Burrata’s creaminess is divine, but if you’re looking for an alternative, any soft, spreadable cheese will work. Goat cheese offers a tangy, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with sweet fruits. Ricotta cheese provides a lighter, milky creaminess. And for a unique, slightly tart option, labneh (strained yogurt cheese) is a delightful substitute.
- Add a Touch of Sweetness: For those who love an even sweeter bite, a thin drizzle of honey or maple syrup over the peaches before grilling can be absolutely heavenly. A sprinkle of brown sugar can also caramelize nicely.
- Nutty Crunch: A light sprinkling of toasted pistachios or slivered almonds inside the panini can add a wonderful textural contrast and subtle nutty flavor.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes sprinkled over the burrata or peaches can add an exciting element.
Delightful Serving Suggestions
This peach, burrata, and prosciutto panini is a complete meal on its own, bursting with flavor and satisfying textures. However, it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of light and refreshing side dishes, perfect for a summer spread.
- Light Summer Salads: Complement the richness of the panini with a crisp, vibrant salad. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette, a refreshing heirloom tomato caprese salad, or even a watermelon and feta salad would be excellent choices, adding a fresh, zesty counterpoint.
- Refreshing Beverages: Quench your thirst with a light and effervescent drink. A tall glass of homemade iced tea, a sparkling lemonade, or a fizzy blackberry soda would be ideal companions to this gourmet sandwich.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a slightly heartier side, consider some oven-baked or grilled vegetables. Simple slow-roasted beefsteak tomatoes, grilled zucchini, or asparagus can add a delicious savory element.
- Soup Pairing: In cooler weather, or for a more substantial lunch, a light, chilled soup like gazpacho or a creamy tomato basil soup would be a delightful pairing.
- Mini Appetizer Crostini: If full-size sandwiches aren’t what you’re craving, transform this recipe into elegant peach crostini! Simply toast slices of baguette until golden, then layer the warm peaches, burrata, prosciutto, and basil on top. These mini bites make for a fantastic appetizer at a summer gathering or a sophisticated snack.
- Fruit Skewers: Keep the summer theme going with colorful fruit skewers featuring berries, melon, and more peaches for a light, sweet accompaniment.
Storage Tips for Freshness
Paninis, especially those with melted cheese and warm ingredients, are truly best enjoyed immediately after they are made. The magic of the crispy bread and gooey center is lost if they sit too long. However, you can certainly prep some of the components in advance to make assembly quicker later.
- Peach Prep: Slice and warm your peaches as per the instructions, then allow them to cool completely. Store the cooled peaches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to make your panini, gently rewarm the peaches in a skillet for a minute or two to bring out their sweetness and juiciness again.
- Burrata and Prosciutto: Keep your burrata and prosciutto separately stored in their original packaging in the refrigerator until ready to use. Burrata is best used fresh, so plan to open it just before assembling your sandwiches.
- Assembling Ahead: It is not recommended to assemble the entire panini in advance, as the bread can become soggy from the burrata and peaches, and the prosciutto might lose its delicate texture. Fresh assembly is key to the panini’s charm.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Panini
Absolutely not! While a panini maker certainly makes the process easy and delivers those classic grill marks, it’s far from essential. You can achieve fantastic results using a sturdy grill pan or a cast-iron skillet. Simply place your assembled panini in the preheated pan, and use another heavy pan (or a foil-wrapped brick) to press it down firmly. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. If you happen to have a panini maker gathering dust, though, this is the perfect recipe to dust it off for! Aside from my blender, my panini maker is one of my most-used kitchen appliances, and I adore those beautiful grill marks it creates.
Yes, absolutely! The prosciutto is the only non-vegetarian ingredient. To make this panini vegetarian, simply omit the prosciutto entirely. The combination of sweet peaches, creamy burrata, fresh basil, and balsamic will still create a wonderfully flavorful and satisfying sandwich. You could also add a layer of grilled halloumi cheese or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for extra texture and protein.
For the best results, choose a sturdy bread that can hold up to the fillings and pressing. Sourdough, ciabatta, country bread, or a good multigrain loaf are excellent choices. Avoid very soft sandwich bread, as it tends to get too compressed and soggy. The bread should have a good crust that crisps up nicely and a medium-dense crumb.
While fresh, ripe peaches are highly recommended for their superior flavor and texture, you can use canned peaches in a pinch. If using canned, make sure they are packed in light syrup or water, and drain them very well to avoid making the panini soggy. Pat them dry with a paper towel before warming. The flavor won’t be as vibrant as fresh, but it will still be a tasty option.
More Irresistible Summer Stone-Fruit Recipes
Nothing captures the essence of summer quite like the sweet, juicy flavors of peaches and plums! Explore more delightful ways to enjoy these seasonal gems with these fantastic recipes.
- Plum Bellini Cocktail
- Easy Summer Plum Cake
- Grilled Peach Caprese Toast
- Burrata Caprese Salad with Peaches
Did you make this incredible recipe? I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Please take a moment to leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and a comment right below the recipe card. If you capture a photo of your magnificent creation, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @brunchandbatter. Your feedback and photos truly inspire me!
📖Recipe
Peach, Prosciutto and Burrata Panini
Equipment
- panini maker or grill pan
Ingredients
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced thin
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided, plus more for drizzling
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 4 slices bread sourdough, multigrain are good choices
- 4 oz burrata cheese (or two 2-ounce burrata balls)
- Kosher salt and pepper to taste
- 2-4 large fresh basil leaves, sliced thin
- 4 slices prosciutto
Instructions
- Heat a panini press or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Warm the peaches: In a small skillet over medium-low heat, warm the sliced peaches with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for 2-3 minutes, just until softened (do not brown). Set aside.¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided, plus more for drizzling, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 2 ripe peaches, sliced thin
- Brush both sides of the bread with olive oil. Spread burrata onto two slices and gently press with a fork to spread and flatten the cheese. Drizzle with a little olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Layer with peaches (and any remaining pan juices), basil, and prosciutto. Top with the remaining bread to make two sandwiches.4 oz burrata cheese (or two 2-ounce burrata balls), Kosher salt and pepper to taste, 2-4 large fresh basil leaves, sliced thin, 4 slices prosciutto, 4 slices bread
- Place on the hot panini press or grill pan. Cook until golden and crispy- about 3-4 minutes per side if using a pan (press down with a spatula). Serve warm. Makes 2-4 servings, depending on the size of your bread.
Notes
- Use good, sturdy bread. Sourdough, multigrain, or whole wheat varieties are all good choices.
- Make sure your peaches are ripe for the sweetest flavor.
- You can find burrata cheese in the cheese section of your local supermarket.
- Season to your taste with additional oil, balsamic, salt, and pepper.
Nutrition*
*Nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. Nutrition information can vary depending on many factors, such as products used, measurements and substitutions, therefore it is recommended that you obtain nutritional calculations based on your own finished recipe.